[Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint].

Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint is a useful technique for the surgical treatment of hallux rigidus, complicated hallux valgus and rheumatoid forefoot deformity, and for revisions following resection arthroplasty or explantation of a prosthesis combined with interposition of a tricortical bone graft. In primary operations, good or excellent results can be achieved in 80-90% of patients. The articular surface and any exostoses or osteophytes are first resected aiming for a 15-30 degrees extension of the metatarsophalangeal angle and a 5-15 degrees valgus angle. Pseudarthroses occur in 10-13% of arthrodeses stabilized with screws or k-wires. When using a plate for fixation, the rate of pseudarthroses is below 6%. Only a small number of pseudarthroses require revision surgery. Up to 15% of patients develop mostly asymptomatic degeneration of the interphalangeal joint of the hallux.